Online Reporter
Bongani Ndlovu, Online Reporter
THE World Robot Olympiad (WRO) Zimbabwe National Finals 2025 officially begins on Wednesday in Bulawayo, running until 30 May, in what organisers describe as a landmark moment for STEM education in Zimbabwe.
The official opening ceremony will be held at The Rock Conference Centre on Wednesday and will feature keynote speeches from partners and Ministry of Education representatives.
In a statement, Ms Victoria Nxumalo, National Coordinator of WRO Zimbabwe and founding director of Girls in STEM Trust, said the national competition brings together over 83 robotics teams from all 10 provinces.
“This reflects the growing reach and impact of robotics education and innovation across the country. This year’s expansion represents a significant leap from 2024, when only 19 teams from three provinces participated. Now, learners from every province, including traditionally underrepresented communities, have the opportunity to engage in this dynamic and future-focused event,” said Ms Nxumalo.
Under the global theme “The Future of Robots”, Ms Nxumalo said participants will explore how robotics can solve real-world challenges.
“From addressing environmental issues to improving healthcare and education, students are presenting innovative, locally relevant solutions that showcase both their technical ability and social awareness,” said Ms Nxumalo.
She said the projects are developed by learners aged eight to 19, competing in Elementary, Junior, and Senior categories.
Ms Nxumalo outlined the mission of the competition, saying WRO Zimbabwe aims to empower young people through hands-on robotics and STEM education, nurturing critical thinkers and problem-solvers who are prepared to lead in a technology-driven world.
“Our programme bridges digital and educational divides by offering inclusive, practical learning experiences that stimulate innovation, creativity, and lifelong learning.”
She said the event’s core values are anchored in inclusivity, equity, innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
“We actively promote gender equality, encourage teamwork, and cultivate resilience and adaptability – essential traits for young people navigating a complex and fast-evolving future,” said Ms Nxumalo.
She said the competition schedule includes intensive hackathons on 28 and 29 May at venues across Bulawayo.
“These sessions allow learners to build, test, and refine their robotic solutions in real time,” Ms Nxumalo said.
She said the opening ceremony will underscore how STEM education supports Zimbabwe’s development goals and acknowledges key partners, including Byo Tech Hub; Embassy of Ireland, Pretoria; Camden Education Trust; Google; Econet; Telco Broadband; Educate; The Computer Society of Zimbabwe; Nemchem; Internet Society Zimbabwe Chapter; Databot USA; and the Ministries of ICT and Primary & Secondary Education.
Ms Nxumalo said the final day on 30 May will see judging and a Closing Ceremony where the top five national teams will be announced.
“These winning teams will represent Zimbabwe at the World Robot Olympiad International Finals in Singapore, competing against global peers and showcasing Zimbabwe’s growing STEM talent on the world stage,” Ms Nxumalo said.
“This year’s National Finals demonstrate that robotics is not a distant concept – it is a powerful educational tool already reshaping learning outcomes in Zimbabwe. The event stands as proof that when young people are given the tools and opportunities, they rise to meet the challenges of tomorrow with vision, skill, and confidence.”
